Original BandLadder material
It teaches a 4-step method: question word, anchor, scan in order and trim. Along the way you get worked examples with the key words marked, before-and-after fixes that show why the first version loses marks, a model answer with its key moves highlighted, a one-page visual summary, a quick check to test yourself and a recap of the rules to remember. Each card holds one idea, so you can read it on a phone between practice sessions.
With a free BandLadder account you can read the first three cards online in our study reader, on the web and in the app. The other 7 cards and the PDF download come with any plan.
The first 2 of 10 cards
the trap in short answers
A short answer that is right but too long earns nothing. Give only the words the question needs.
"When does the café open?" (NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS) You write: on the first Saturday of every month.over the limit
Right idea, wrong length.
what each one asks for
| Question starts | Look for |
|---|---|
| Who | a person or a group |
| When | a day or a time |
| Where | a place |
| How many / much | a number or an amount |
| How long | a length of time |
| Why | a short reason |
Answers follow the text's order (ielts.org).
Card 3 of 10 onwards
Card 3 is free too
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Start Short-answer questions free
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Questions
The first three cards are free to read online with a free BandLadder account. The full lesson opens with any plan.
The PDF download comes with any BandLadder plan. Free accounts read the lesson online in the study reader, on the web and in the app.
The BandLadder team wrote and checked it. It is original BandLadder material, not copied from books or other websites, and its exam facts are checked against the official IELTS and PTE pages.
Both versions of the test: it covers what they share and says where they differ.
IELTS is a registered trademark of the University of Cambridge, the British Council and IDP Education Australia. PTE is a trademark of Pearson. BandLadder is not affiliated with either.
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